Shopping news: Gifts for the brain and more

The Brain Trainer, a research-based brain-training and speech-therapy center, has opened a new store in Ballantyne.

The Brain Trainer carries games designed to improve learning skills including memory, logic and reasoning, ability to pay attention, visual and brain processing and number recognition.

7ate9 is a fast-paced game of addition and subtraction that helps boost processing speed. Zingo, a game similar to Bingo, is designed to enhance memory in kids age 4-8. Q-Bitz, Super Circles and Tally Rally are just a few of the staff favorites. Games are less than $30 and start at $5.99.

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The Brain Trainer also serves clients with reading and math difficulties, ADD/ADHD, autism and Asperger's syndrome, language and speech disorders, as well as students and professionals who want to gain an advantage.

Le Cookery, based in Hilton Head, S.C., has opened a new location in Blakeney Shopping Center. This kitchen and tableware store features a complete selection of cookware by All Clad and Lodge, as well as serving ware collections by Vietri, handmade and hand-painted in Italy. Hand-painted Christmas ornaments from the Old Saint Nick Collection, also by Vietri, make timely hostess gifts. This kitchen store has scores of time-saving accessories perfect for filling stockings.

Le Cookery also carries small appliances by brands such as Cuisinart and collectible ceramics by Intrada. Complimentary gift wrapping is available from a helpful staff.

Jewelry Artists of Charlotte in Ballantyne has opened a new sister store on Selwyn Avenue in south Charlotte. Ruby's Gift features handmade artisan jewelry and art from artists all over the region, as well as clothing from Spain.

Kids have their own special spot to play at Ruby's Gift so parents can enjoy some uninterrupted shopping time.